A nurse manager is implementing a quality improvement project to reduce the number of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections at the facility. Which of the following actions should the nurse manager take first?

A. "If you accept this assignment today, I will let you choose your assignment tomorrow.": This statement exemplifies smoothing as a conflict resolution strategy. By offering a compromise or incentive, the charge nurse is attempting to reduce tension and create a more favorable situation for the staff nurse, thereby smoothing over the disagreement about the assignment.

B. "Let's just focus on giving out client medications on time.": This statement diverts attention from the conflict but does not actively seek to resolve it. It may minimize the issue temporarily but does not address the underlying disagreement or concern regarding the assignment.

C. "If you don't agree with the assignment, I will have to report your decision to the nursing supervisor.": This statement is confrontational and may escalate the conflict rather than resolve it. It places pressure on the staff nurse and does not foster a collaborative atmosphere for finding a solution.

D. "You have a lot of experience, so I'm sure you're capable of these tasks.": While this statement acknowledges the staff nurse's experience, it may not effectively address the conflict regarding the assignment. It could come across as dismissive of the nurse's concerns rather than facilitating a resolution to the disagreement.

A. "I have a severe allergy to amoxicillin." A severe allergy to amoxicillin suggests a potential cross-reactivity with ceftriaxone, as both belong to the beta-lactam antibiotic class. While cross-reactivity between penicillins and cephalosporins is lower with third-generation cephalosporins like ceftriaxone, a history of severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis, warrants consultation with the provider before administration.

B. "I get sick when I take diuretics." Adverse effects from diuretics do not typically indicate a contraindication to ceftriaxone. While diuretics like furosemide can interact with aminoglycosides to increase nephrotoxicity, ceftriaxone does not share this risk. Monitoring for individual tolerances is important, but this statement does not require holding the medication.

C. "I have a history of hearing problems." Ceftriaxone is not associated with ototoxicity, unlike aminoglycosides or vancomycin. A history of hearing problems does not necessitate withholding the medication, though the nurse should monitor for any new or worsening symptoms if concurrent ototoxic medications are prescribed.

D. "I take prednisone for my asthma." Corticosteroid use does not directly contraindicate ceftriaxone administration. While prolonged corticosteroid therapy may increase the risk of infections or mask symptoms of an allergic reaction, it does not warrant holding the antibiotic. The nurse should continue routine monitoring but can safely proceed with administration.